Softshell jackets are some of the most versatile pieces of clothing you can own. They can be worn in a wide range of temperatures and weather conditions, making them perfect for everything from hiking to skiing. However, if you don’t take care of your softshell jacket properly, it will quickly lose its water resistance and windproofing. In this article, we’ll talk about Nikwax Softshell Proof, a product designed to keep your softshell jacket waterproof and windproof. We’ll answer some common questions about the product and provide tips on how to use it effectively.
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Nikwax Softshell Proof
Nikwax is now the global leader in safe, high performance cleaning and waterproofing products for outdoor clothing, footwear, and equipment.Nikwax Softshell Proof User Manual
What is Nikwax Softshell Proof?
Most people don’t even realize that their softshell jackets need to be waterproofed. After all, they are made of water-resistant fabric, so why would you need to add an extra layer of protection? The answer is simple: over time, the water-resistant coating on your softshell jacket will wear down. And once that happens, your jacket will no longer be able to repel water effectively.
This can lead to a number of problems. For one, you’ll be much more susceptible to getting wet in a rainstorm. But even if you manage to avoid getting caught in the rain, your jacket will still absorb moisture from the air. This can cause it to lose its shape, breathability and become less comfortable to wear.
That’s why it’s important to waterproof your softshell jacket on a regular basis, especially if you’re an active outdoor person. And when it comes to waterproofing products, Nikwax Softshell Proof is one of the best on the market.
It works by adding an invisible DWR layer to the fabric which beads water and prevents it from soaking in. The treatment is also breathable, so it won’t affect the jacket’s ability to regulate body temperature or cause any condensation build-up inside.
Nikwax Softshell Proof is different from traditional waterproofing sprays because it does not just add a layer of protection to the surface of your garment. Instead, it actually bonds with the fibers of your fabric to create a durable, long-lasting barrier against water, oil, and dirt.
One of the great things about Nikwax Softshell Proof is that it’s very easy to use, and can significantly increase the lifespan of your softshell jacket. The product comes in two forms: a spray-on treatment and a wash-in treatment.
The spray-on treatment is the easiest to use, and only takes a few minutes to apply. The wash-in treatment is slightly more involved, but will also give your jacket an extra level of protection.[1],[2]
How to Apply Nikwax Softshell Proof Wash-In?
Applying Nikwax Softshell Proof is a simple process. You have two options: either by washing your jacket in a washing machine, or by hand. We will explain both methods step-by-step.
Clean your jacket with Nikwax Tech Wash
It’s important to remember that Nikwax Softshell Proof should only be applied to clean garments. Before you treat your garment, make sure to wash it according to the instructions on the care label.
To achieve the best results, it is recommended that you first clean your jacket with Nikwax Tech Wash. This is a special cleaning product that gets rid of all the dirt, grime and oils that can build up on your jacket over time. It also won’t interfere with the performance of Nikwax Softshell Proof as other cleaning detergents would.
Place clothing inside the washing machine
Once you’ve cleaned your jacket with Nikwax Tech Wash, simply place it inside your washing machine. Make sure to close all the zippers and Velcro fastenings, as these can damage other clothing in the wash. It’s recommended to not wash more than three garments at a time to ensure that the Nikwax Softshell Proof is evenly distributed.
Clean the detergent dispenser thoroughly
Before adding the Nikwax Softshell Proof, make sure to clean the detergent dispenser of your washing machine. This is important because you don’t want any leftover detergent to mix with the Nikwax and cause problems.
Wait for washing machine to fill and add the agent
Once the dispenser is clean, fill the machine with water and wait for it to stop before adding the Nikwax Softshell Proof. The recommended amount is 100ml per garment.
Close the lid of the washing machine and select a heavy cycle and low water level. You want to select a warm water cycle, but not hot as this can damage the Nikwax.
Once the cycle is finished, open the lid and carefully remove your garments. Do not wring them out, as this can damage the fabric.
Leave your coat to air dry
Place your garments on a clean towel and leave them to air dry in a warm place.
One of the best things about this waterproofing agent is that you don’t need heat to activate it, so there’s no risk of damaging your clothing.
Applying the treatment by hand
If you don’t have access to a washing machine, or if you prefer to apply the Nikwax Softshell Proof by hand, then follow these steps.
Fill a clean sink or basin with lukewarm water
First, fill a clean sink or basin with lukewarm water.
Make sure the sink or basin is big enough to fully submerge your jacket.
Submerge a single garment and add the agent
Once the sink or basin is filled with water, submerge a single garment in it. Then add at least 50ml of the Nikwax Softshell Proof to the water.
Stir the solution until the Nikwax is fully dissolved, then leave your garment to soak for around 10 minutes.
Agitate well
After 10 minutes have passed, agitate your garment well to make sure the Nikwax Softshell Proof is evenly spread. You can do this by gently rubbing the fabric together.
Rinse well
Once you’ve agitated the garment, rinse it thoroughly with clean water to remove any excess Nikwax. Make sure you rinse until the water runs clear, as any leftover Nikwax can affect the breathability of your jacket. After rinsing, just leave your garment to air dry.
To prolong the water-repellant treatment for longer, Nikwax suggests that you wash your treated coat with Nikwax Tech Wash
To prolong the water-repellant treatment for longer, Nikwax suggests that you wash your treated coat with Nikwax Tech Wash. This will not remove any dirt and grime that can build up on the fabric over time but also will help to re-activate the treatment.
You will also need to retract your garment every few months, because no matter how good the product is, the treatment will eventually wear off. [1]
How to Apply Nikwax Softshell Proof Spray?
Now that we’ve gone through the wash-in method, let’s take a look at how to apply Nikwax Softshell Proof spray.
Again, it’s important to start with clean garments. Simply follow the instructions on the care label and give it a quick wash with Nikwax Tech Wash before applying the waterproofing spray.
Once your garment is clean, simply lay it out on a flat surface while it’s still wet and make sure that all the zippers and fastenings are closed. Next, shake the can of Nikwax well and apply an even layer of spray over the entire surface.
After several minutes have passed, wipe the excess Nikwax off with a clean cloth. You don’t want to leave any residue on your garment as this can attract dirt and grime.
Finally, leave your garment to air dry in a warm place. Do not put it in direct sunlight or heat as this can damage the Nikwax treatment. [1]
Features of Nikwax Softshell Proof
Now that we’ve gone over how to apply the Nikwax Softshell Proof, let’s take a detailed look at some of its features.
It adds a durable water repellent layer to your clothing
One of the main features of Nikwax Softshell Proof is that it adds a durable water repellent (DWR) layer to your clothing. The DWR layer is essential because it helps to keep your clothing clean and dry. It also helps to prevent water from seeping into the fabric of your garment, which can cause the fabric to become saturated and heavy. It helps to repel all water, oil, and dirt from the surface of your garment. Soaked clothing not only feels heavy and uncomfortable, but will also lose some of its breathability.
One of the best features of Nikwax Softshell Proof is that it is safe for all types of four-way stretch softshell fabrics. This means that you can use it on all types of softshell jackets, including those made with Gore-Tex® and other waterproof materials.
Improves abrasion resistance
Another great feature of Nikwax Softshell Proof is that it improves the abrasion resistance of your clothing. Abrasion resistance is important because it helps to prevent your clothing from tearing or fraying. It also helps to prolong the life of your garment by preventing premature wear and tear.
Nikwax Softshell Proof is also safe for all types of zippers, including waterproof zippers. This means that you can use it on all types of softshell jackets, including those with zip-off sleeves.
It maintains the breathability of your clothing
Waterproofing agents are known to affect the breathability of clothing. Nikwax Softshell Proof, however, is different. It has been specifically designed to maintain the breathability of your clothing. This means that you can still enjoy all the benefits of your softshell jacket, even after you’ve treated it with Nikwax Softshell Proof.
This is important because breathable clothing helps to regulate your body temperature, keeping you cool in warm weather and warm in cold weather. It also helps to prevent sweat from building up on your skin, which can cause chafing and discomfort.
It’s safe for the planet
Nikwax Softshell Proof is a water-based product, which means that it’s safe for the planet. It’s biodegradable and fluorocarbon-free which makes it a great choice for those who are looking for an environmentally friendly waterproofing agent.
Nikwax Softshell Proof is also PFC-free, which means that it doesn’t contain any of the harmful chemicals that are often found in other waterproofing agents.
It’s very easy to apply
Another great feature of Nikwax Softshell Proof is that it’s very easy to apply. As we already covered, you can either apply it in a washing machine or by hand. The process is quick and easy, and you don’t need any special equipment.
One thing to keep in mind is that you should always follow the instructions on the bottle. This will help to ensure that you get the best possible results.[1],[2]
What to Keep in Mind Before Buying
Despite all the great features of Nikwax Softshell Proof, there are a few things that you should keep in mind before you buy it.
It doesn’t last as long as some other waterproofing agents
One of the downsides of Nikwax Softshell Proof is that because it is water-based, it doesn’t last as long as some other waterproofing agents. This means that you may need to reapply it more often than you would with other products.
It’s also important to note that Nikwax Softshell Proof is not a replacement for Gore-Tex® or other waterproof materials. It is simply a treatment that helps to keep your softshell jacket waterproof and breathable.
It leaves a weak glue odor
Nikwax doesn’t use any harmful chemicals in their products, which is great news for the environment. However, one of the trade-offs is that Nikwax Softshell Proof leaves a weak glue odor when it dries.
This isn’t a big deal for most people, but if you are sensitive to smells, you may want to take this into consideration before purchasing the product. However the smell should disappear after the clothing has dried completely.
Overall, Nikwax Softshell Proof is a great product that can help to keep your softshell jacket waterproof and breathable. However, you should also consider the above factors before you buy this agent.
FAQ
Can you make a softshell waterproof?
The short answer is yes, you can make a softshell waterproof. The longer answer is that it depends on the fabric and how the garment is constructed.
Nikwax Softshell Proof is a product that can be used to waterproof both old and new softshell fabrics. It’s a spray-on formula that bonds to the fibers of the fabric to create an additional barrier against water.
How often should I waterproof my softshell jacket?
This will depend on how often you wear your softshell jacket and what kind of activities you use it for. If you’re using it regularly for outdoor activities in all weather conditions, then you should waterproof it at least once a few. For occasional use in milder conditions, every other season should be fine.
Can you waterproof any fabric with Nikwax Softshell Proof?
Nikwax Softshell Proof is specifically designed for softshell fabrics. It will not work with other fabrics.
If you have a waterproof jacket that is made from another fabric, you can use a Nikwax treatment specifically for that type of fabric to waterproof it. For example Nikwax Leather Proof for leather jackets.
Related Video: How To Apply: NIKWAX Soft Shell Proof And Down Proof
Conclusion
It’s time to conclude our Nikwax Softshell Proof review. Overall, we think it’s a great product with some excellent features. This safe agent will not only protect your clothing from moisture, but also strengthens the fabric and prolongs its life. What makes it different from the other similar products, is that it preserves breathability. If you’re looking for an easy way to waterproof your softshell jacket, then Nikwax Softshell Proof is a great option. However, keep in mind that if you expose it to water too often, you will need to reapply it more frequently than other waterproofing agents. But all things considered, we think it’s still a great product and would recommend it to anyone.
References:
- https://www.nikwax.com/en-us/products/softshell-proof-wash-in/
- https://www.rei.com/product/724686/nikwax-softshell-proof-10-fl-oz
